Supplements for fighters

The use of proper supplementation during MMA training is quite a challenge. It;s a completely different character of exercise than the one usually used by gym goers, and the fighter must be provided with adequate regeneration conditions, and supplements should show some functionality in their operation.

We have prepared for you a list of 8 supplements that will work well with MMA training taking into account nutritional, regenerative and functional needs.

1. Protein supplement

Practically every athlete should think about the introduction of proteinin the form of powder due to their speed of use, which should be used around training time. It gives us the maximum opportunity to shorten the time, from the introduction of food to its operation, in the form of released amino acids in the blood. The post-exercise option will work best, where we should use about 30-40 g of protein in the form of a shake to ensure maximum recovery support.

2. Caffeine

Caffeinehas an action supporting muscle endurance thanks to the ergogenic function. Its use not only affects the stimulation of the nervous system, but is additionally responsible for the dilation of blood vessels, which allows the muscle to work more efficiently. During exercise, muscles immediately need these types of ingredients. Therefore, their faster transport is highly desirable. The dose varies depending on the individualtrainers’ predisposition, but does not exceed 100-300 mg at a time.

3. Complex of group B vitamins

This is a fairly underrated supplement, but when it comes to the use of low-carb diets, such as during weight-lifting before the fight, providing the right amount of B vitamins from the diet is quite a challenge. Vitaminsin this group are responsible for a number of functions of the nervous system, as well as ensure that the energy metabolism in our body remains at a high level. All the more necessary when it comes to intensive training on a low energy supply.

Divide the portions according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the first meal of the day. When choosing a supplement, make sure that it contains B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid) and B12 (cyanocobalamin).

4. Citrulline

In bodybuilding, citrullineis mainly used as a precursor of arginine to synthesize nitric oxide, which is designed to make training more pleasant for us by giving us a strong muscle pump. However, in MMA the meaning will be slightly different. Citrulline exhibits excellent endurance support, ensuring that the muscles being trained are efficient. Citrulline also supports the flow of blood through working tissues, providing the body with adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients. The dose used to support endurance is about 6g per day.

5. BCAA

BCAAsare useful especially in periods where the trainings are long and demanding or when two training sessions are required next to each other in short periods of time. What’s more, BCAA is a nutritional supplement of the “recovery” type, so it contributes to the improvement of regeneration, accelerating the repair of damaged muscle fibres.

The BCAA dose is about 15-20 g used during exercise.

6. Beta-alanine

Classic supplement for endurance, which works not only with running sports. Beta-alanine also increases muscle performance when used in strength training. It will then work as an element of support for your body during deadly MMA training. Its action is based on supporting the synthesis of carnosine, a powerful antioxidant, so the action supporting regenerative processes is also noted.

The dose of beta-alanine is about 3 g per day.

7. Omega-3 fatty acids

The fatty acids from omega-3 family will take care of your body holistically. They will provide support for the heart, joints, help maintain the sugar economy in impeccable condition, and contribute to better weight control. They provide an excellent nutrition for the brain, ensuring its functioning properly and protecting nerve cells. What’s more, fatty acids have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, and thus protect the muscle cells from excessive damage, speeding up the post-workout recovery.

The optimal dose of omega-3 fatty acids is about 1-3 g per day.

8. Creatine

A classic supplement that allows for such activities that you practically serve during training. This means that creatine is such a universal supplement that it helps build muscular endurance and supports the increase of strength and muscle mass. It works perfectly as an element to fighter supplementation, especially during periods of building strength, improving regeneration and contributing to muscle protection.